A lotus root may look like a carrot or a swede, but this popular ingredient is entirely different. Usually found in most Asian dishes, lotus root is a perennial plant that grows in tropical areas and has many incredible benefits.
However, what does lotus root taste like? This plant has a mild flavor with a bitter undertone. It absorbs the flavors of other ingredients, which is why it is an excellent addition to any recipe.
If you think you deserve to try lotus root but are unsure about its taste, this article will help you explore that. Moreover, dig in to find different ways to use this vegetable in your dishes.
Table of Contents
What Is a Lotus Root?
Have you ever seen a Lotus plant? This majestic plant has vibrant blooms and huge leaves. It is usually found in ponds in Asia, floating in different directions.
Interestingly, the plant is edible, and so are its roots. The plant has a sweet and pleasant flavor, hence enjoyed in Chinese and Japanese cuisines.
You can spot a lotus root under the water in slits and sand. It is also known as the "Chinese white carrot" and is often used as a primary ingredient in medicines.
A lotus root looks like an elongated potato. It has two types, red and white. The red lotus root features seven, while the white one has nine holes.
A red lotus root is ideal for frying, courtesy of its slimmer shape and crispy texture. On the other hand, the white lotus root has high starch content.
What Does Lotus Root Taste Like?
It is about time we address the main point of this article. What does a lotus root taste like?
The lotus flower and root vary a lot in their appearance. There is no match; however, when you cut open the root, you will witness a delicate and clean beauty.
The white flesh of the root stays true to its appearance. It has a mild taste with a slightly sweet flavor. You may also experience a bitter undertone, but that, too, feels pleasant.
The texture of this vegetable is fibrous and crunchy.
Since the root has a mild taste, it easily absorbs the flavor of other ingredients in the dish. A lotus root is like tofu and chestnut in its flavor and texture.
Other than the root's fantastic taste, this plant is also pretty nutritious. It contains healthy amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, and magnesium. In addition, it is rich in fiber and vitamins C and B6.
Potassium helps in regulating blood pressure levels. Similarly, proteins assist with increasing muscle health. Since this vegetable contains carbohydrates, you can get most of your calories from this source.
While you enjoy the taste of a lotus root, you also experience weight loss, improved immunity, reduced stress levels, and maintained blood sugar levels.
There isn't just one way to enjoy its flavor and texture. In fact, you can add the plant to your diet using different methods.
Ways to Eat Lotus Roots
There are five different ways to eat lotus root.
- You can easily eat a young lotus root. This is because the older roots become more fibrous and tough. If you don't prefer a dip, you can eat root on its own. However, sauces like Arrabbiata sauce and Marinara sauce pair well with slices of raw lotus root.
- If you like stir-frying your vegetables, you may also do that with lotus root. The process helps to keep the root crispy and flavorsome. When stir-frying, you can add a healthy amount of Tabasco sauce to the mix to elevate its flavor and heat.
- Are you looking to reduce your fat intake? In that case, boil the lotus root and enjoy it in a bowl of other mixed vegetables. You can sprinkle some salt and pepper for taste.
- Do you know that many people prefer baking lotus roots? The method makes them crispy and helps in sealing all the seasonings.
- If you are in a hurry and want something healthy, you can microwave the root slices. The results are pretty similar to what you get while boiling this plant.
Lotus root slices make great chips that you can enjoy before your dinner. Moreover, you can add this vegetable to stews and soups or your noodles for a hearty meal.
Believe it or not, this root tastes great as your dessert garnishing. You can also dry the root using a dehydrator and grind it to make flour.
Finally, pickle the root and preserve it in a jar.
Final Words
If lotus root is a new addition to your food library, know that this edible plant is worth a spot. This beautiful vegetable is pretty tasty with a mild and sweet flavor. Moreover, it has a crunchy texture, meaning you can easily enjoy it raw.
What's more, you can enjoy it in different ways and reap various benefits with every bite. The vegetable doesn't disappoint, and that's what makes it quite popular.
So, try it yourself and let us know your experience in the comments section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Flavor Does Lotus Root Have?
Lotus root has a mildly sweet flavor and tastes quite like a water chestnut. This edible stem has a crunchy and crispy texture. Some people also categorize this vegetable as a chewy potato when boiled or steamed.
Can Lotus Root Be Eaten Raw?
Famous in East and South Asia, lotus root is an amazing vegetable that can be eaten raw. However, you can only eat young lotus root, which is easy to bite. Older lotus roots are hard and should be boiled or fried before you can eat them.
What Are the Benefits of Eating Lotus Root?
There are many benefits of including lotus root in your diet. For instance, it boosts digestion and maintains blood pressure. It also reduces stress and is, therefore, great for your hair and skin.
In addition, it prevents water retention and aids weight loss. However, when stir-frying lotus root, ensure to use healthy oil only with low-fat content. The best way to enjoy this vegetable is when it is boiled and steamed.
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